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Congressman Aderholt Seeks Oversight for Proposed Port Deal

Date: March 1, 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: National Security Foreign Affairs


CONGRESSMAN ADERHOLT SEEKS OVERSIGHT FOR PROPOSED PORT DEAL

WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) today announced the introduction of the Foreign Investment Security Improvement Act of 2006 (H.R. 4807), that is in response to concerns about the proposed takeover of Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Co. by Dubai Ports World (DP World) of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.). Congressman Aderholt is an original cosponsor of this legislation, which would ensure a thorough investigation of the proposed takeover and grant Congress the authority to reverse the approval of the deal.

"I have deep concerns regarding the proposed U.A.E. port deal. Our highest priority should be national security and our ports are already too vulnerable. A thorough investigation must be started immediately, and Congress must have the power to overturn this deal if it is not in the best interest of our Nation. This legislation will accomplish both of these things," said Congressman Aderholt.

The investigation outlined in H.R. 4807 would require: (1) a review of U.S. Coast Guard assessments of foreign ports where DP World operates, (2) background checks of DP World officers and security personnel, (3) an evaluation of the impact on port security by DP World's control of U.S. port operations, and (4) consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Secretary of Homeland Security and State and local officials, regarding the impact on national security of DP World operations at affected U.S. ports. Following this 45-day review, the bill would require, within 15 days, a report to Congress providing the detailed findings of the investigation and the Presidential determination. Congress would then have 30 days to reverse an approval of the transaction through legislation.

"Since September 11, 2001, efforts and funding levels to secure our ports have been greater than ever before. We can not afford to go backwards. We must continue to take steps forward to ensure the security of our ports and our Nation," added the congressman.

The bill was recently referred to the following U.S. House committees: Homeland Security, Energy and Commerce, International Relations, and Financial Services.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/al04_aderholt/060301.html

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